Cottage
After a few years emptied and forgotten, a beautiful Interwar cottage found itself engulfed in flames one night.
The property is Grade II listed largely due to its unique ‘picturesque form and slightly eccentric features’ as a “modest but well‐conceived example of the higher end of interwar mass‐market speculative housing.”
The building was subjected to external and internal vandalism for some time before a blaze destroyed its roof and first floor, culminating with part of the floor collapsing over the rear kitchen.
Sections of the building were found significantly damaged yet in place. Additionally, the lack of tenure has led to the deterioration of the building which required significant repair works to ensure its usability as a modern residential dwelling and long‐term preservation.
In dealing with Listed Building Consent and restoration solutions, the town planners and architects Form Design Group approached JaM to advise and assist with conservation recommendations, planning interpretations and negotiate with the local planning authority. These comprised of recommending restoration methodology to reinstate damaged wooden features and scorched metal architectural elements, address enforcement requirements, and produce a Condition Survey Report appraising the heritage asset and providing recommendations for the necessary conservation works to restore, repair, replace and reproduce the special character of the listed building.
JaM also assisted in preparing the tender information and comment on the received tenderers’ proposals, as well as prepare a Method Statement, Specifications, and a Schedule of Works to support the contractor in dealing with the listed building’s work requirements.
The project is still on going with the roof and dormer completely rebuilt to their former glory using salvaged and reclaimed roof tiles, whilst all the enforcement issues to protect and stabilize the listed building have been addressed successfully. The building work is due to resume shortly after the remaining planning matters have been resolved and building contact signed.
